We’re All in This Together
Citizens’ Climate Lobby 101
By Tracy Meade, CCL Volunteer
“Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) empowers everyday people to bridge divides and build political will for effective climate solutions in Congress.”
That’s CCL’s mission statement. It guides the work of 350-plus CCL chapters across the US. It also informs how our Portland Chapter is organized and operates—and it breaks out nicely.
Bridging Divides
Bridging divides speaks to CCL’s commitment to non-partisanship. Our Portland Chapter takes care in meetings and communications to meet all members and guests where they are on the political spectrum. This requires respect for differing opinions and positions. Not to mention, the time to find common ground and a commitment to share the work of building a strong non-partisan voice for national climate solutions.
Non-partisanship applies as well to our work with Maine’s US congressional delegation. We write, call, and meet with each of our senators and representatives, always practicing CCL’s core value of non-partisanship. We strive to be a trusted, respected, and steadfast citizen voice on the importance and achievability of effective climate policy. And we reflect the growing electoral support for a healthy climate future.
Building Political Will
Building political will means developing citizen lobbyists who know how to cultivate and increase the support of local, state, and national leaders to address the climate crisis. The CCL website, its comprehensive menu of climate and policy trainings, regional and national conferences, and the 2026 Bridge Advocacy series, which focuses on helping volunteers learn how to navigate relationships in times of political polarization, are some of the resources and tools available to all members. Engaged and knowledgeable citizens are the heart of CCL’s theory of change.
Effective Climate Solutions in Congress
Effective climate solutions in Congress are the CCL goal, and they drive CCL’s support for federal policies that “reduce emissions, remove climate pollution and protect people.” There’s another angle here, too. CCL is held accountable for the climate solutions it endorses. Therefore, its success depends upon its ongoing consultation with experts, widespread and effective use of data, and openness to feedback and debate before making decisions.
Maybe you want to join our lobbying team? Write articles and op-eds. Help educate the community about CCL. Drum-up business and municipal endorsements or enjoy coffee and donuts with us at our monthly meeting. If so, consider yourself invited!
Of course, if you’d like more information about us, feel free to request a CCL presentation for your organization!
Be part of the solution: Join Citizens Climate Lobby at cclusa.org/join or join us at an upcoming CCL Portland Chapter meeting at 9 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month. Upcoming meetings are at the Portland Media Center, 516 Congress Street, or join us online.
